THE HOT FLASHES

THE HOT FLASHES
LIVE

Happy Appy Records
HAR-11

The Hot Flashes is an enchanting vocal trio that includes Amy Gallatin, Peggy Ann Harvey, and Gail Wade. Gallatin is an internationally-known artist who plays guitar, banjolele, and percussion and fronts her own band Stillwaters. Harvey plays fiddle, viola, harmonica, and soprano saxophone. She was a founding member of the former Traver Hollow band and is a part-time member of Stillwaters. Wade plays guitar and banjo and is an award-winning singer/songwriter. Together the Flashes have become a popular group throughout New England where they showcase their fine harmonies and upbeat stylings, whether it be bluegrass, country, or jazz.

The trio is joined by John Urbanik (bass), and Stillwaters bandmembers J.D. Williams (mandolin, fiddle) and Roger Williams (resonator guitar). These three also add harmony vocals to the album. The selections span many musical styles, such as the jazz/swing of Gershwin’s “Lady Be Good,” Benny Goodman’s “Slipped Disc,” and the swinging “Blue Love (In My Heart).” Country tunes include Hank Williams’ “Honky Tonk Blues,” Nora Jane Struthers’ “Cowgirl Yodel #3,” and Tom Russell’s “Guadalupe.” There’s also the gospel “Place No Wreath Upon My Door” and “Calling My Children.” Ballads include “Loving Arms” and “Immigrant Eyes,” and there are also a couple of Wade’s own songs, “Journey” and “Wash Me Down.” They even throw in a great version of Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass.” Overall, this is a really good live project that showcases The Hot Flashes entertaining approach to music. (www.thehotflashesmusic.com)BF